What is Permitting?
Before we can install your solar system, your local city or county needs to review and approve the design. This is called a building permit. It's required by law and ensures your solar installation is safe and meets all building codes.
What Better Earth Does
We handle the entire permitting process for you. Here's what happens behind the scenes:
Design submittal: We prepare detailed engineering plans for your solar system
Permit application: We submit the application and plans to your local building department
Plan review: The building department reviews your plans for code compliance
Corrections (if needed): Sometimes the city requests minor changes to the design. We handle these and resubmit.
Approval: Once approved, we receive the building permit and can schedule your installation
You don't need to visit any government offices or fill out permit paperwork — we take care of all of it.
How Long Does Permitting Take?
Permitting timelines vary significantly depending on your location:
Jurisdiction Type | Typical Timeline |
Fast-track cities | 1-2 weeks |
Average cities | 2-4 weeks |
Slower jurisdictions | 4-6 weeks |
With plan corrections | Add 1-2 weeks |
Some cities have a backlog of applications that can cause delays beyond our control. We follow up regularly on your behalf.
What Might You Need to Do?
In most cases, you don't need to do anything. However, some situations may require your help:
HOA approval: If you live in a community with a Homeowners Association, you may need to submit a solar application to your HOA. Better Earth can provide the documents you need.
Signatures: Some jurisdictions require the homeowner's signature on the permit application. We'll let you know if this applies to you.
Property access: In rare cases, a city inspector may need to visit your property before approving the permit.
Why Does It Feel Like Nothing is Happening?
The permitting phase is often the quietest part of your solar journey. Your system has been designed, your contract is signed, but you may not hear from us for a few weeks. This is normal.
During this time, your plans are sitting in a queue at the building department. We check on them regularly and will reach out as soon as the permit is approved and we can schedule your installation.
How to Check Your Permitting Status
You can check on your project anytime:
Call us at (888) 373-9379
Email [email protected]
Log in to your Better Earth Customer Portal
What Happens After the Permit is Approved?
Once we have your building permit:
We order your solar equipment (if not already in stock)
We contact you to schedule your installation date
Installation typically takes 1-2 days depending on system size
The wait is almost over — installation day is right around the corner!